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How to Install Docker on Ubuntu

How to Install Docker on Ubuntu

Posted by NetworkWhois on

Getting started with containerization? You're in the right place! I've helped numerous developers set up Docker on Ubuntu, and I'll walk you through the entire process. Docker has transformed how we deploy applications, and Ubuntu 23 provides an excellent platform for running containerized workloads. Let's get Docker up and running on your system!

Quick Tip: If you're upgrading from an older Docker installation, make sure to remove it completely before following this guide to avoid any conflicts.

Before We Begin: System Requirements

Here's what you'll need to follow along:

  • A machine running Ubuntu (either desktop or server edition)
  • User account with sudo privileges
  • Active internet connection
  • Terminal access to your system

1. Preparing Your System

First, let's make sure your system is up to date with the latest package information:

sudo apt update
update-and-upgrade-Ubuntu-package-index-2048x1100.png

2. Setting Up Docker Prerequisites

Docker needs certain system packages to function properly. Let's install them:

sudo apt install -y apt-transport-https ca-certificates curl software-properties-common
Install-Docker-Dependencies-2048x388.png Why These Packages?
  • apt-transport-https: Enables secure package transport
  • ca-certificates: Helps with SSL certificate verification
  • curl: For downloading Docker's GPG key
  • software-properties-common: Manages software repositories

3. Adding Docker's Official GPG Key

Security is crucial! Let's add Docker's GPG key to verify package integrity:

curl -fsSL https://download.docker.com/linux/ubuntu/gpg | sudo gpg --dearmor -o /usr/share/keyrings/docker-archive-keyring.gpg

4. Configuring Docker Repository

Now, let's add Docker's official repository to your system:

echo "deb [signed-by=/usr/share/keyrings/docker-archive-keyring.gpg] https://download.docker.com/linux/ubuntu $(lsb_release -cs) stable" | sudo tee /etc/apt/sources.list.d/docker.list > /dev/null

5. Installing Docker Engine

We're ready to install Docker! This command will install Docker Engine, CLI tools, and Docker Compose:

sudo apt update
sudo apt install -y docker-ce docker-ce-cli containerd.io docker-compose
Install-Docker-Engine-Ubuntu-23-2048x468.png

6. Verifying Your Installation

Let's make sure everything is working as expected:

sudo docker run hello-world
Verify-Docker-on-Ubuntu-23-Installation-2048x771.png Troubleshooting Tip: If you see a "permission denied" error, you might need to add your user to the docker group. Run this command and then log out and back in: 
sudo usermod -aG docker $USER

What's Next?

Congratulations! You've successfully installed Docker on your Ubuntu 23 system. Now you're ready to start working with containers. Here are some things you might want to try:

  • Pull your first Docker image
  • Create a custom container
  • Learn basic Docker commands
  • Set up your first containerized application

Have you successfully installed Docker following this guide? What will you containerize first? Share your experience, and don't hesitate to send us an email if you run into any issues!